Blandford Ski Getaways

Owned and operated by the Springfield Ski Club since 1936, Blandford has earned a venerable place in New England skiing history. A mere 30 minutes west of Springfield and even closer to the city's western suburbs, Blandford has been teaching area families how to ski or snowboard since its beginning. And it's been serving up a ton of fun while doing so.

Blandford has 465 feet of vertical, some two dozen trails, a ﾽ pipe and a terrain park. Three double chairs and a surface lift serve this terrain, 80% of which is covered by snowmaking. Eleven trails including the half pipe and the terrain park are lighted for night skiing.

The teaching philosophy runs deep at Blandford. More than 40 instructors offer morning and afternoon classes for ages four to adult, teaching to all abilities. Private lessons are available, of course, and there are after-school learn to ski or snowboard programs.

Put those lessons to good use on trails like North Slope, Blueberry Run, and Liftline (a good showoff trail), or tougher terrain like Put's Peril and Ledge Run.

If speed appeals to you and you are eight to 18 years old, participate in Blandford Club Races, or join a Blandford team in the Western Mass. Interclub Racing League (WMIRL) or the Tri-State League. Family recreational racing is also offered, and many nights you'll find adult corporate teams going head-to-head on the Racing Trail. All trails and slopes lead down to a base lodge with a view up the hill.